"Whether you play an extra season game [overseas], that has challenges, not least among the fans, which we take into consideration."

A number of Premier League club chairmen believe they could cash in on interest overseas.

Manchester United have drawn huge crowds on their tours of the United States and the Far East - but plans for a 39th game were dropped in 2008 following widespread opposition, including from FIFA and UEFA.

Scudamore added: "I've never shied away from the fact that personally I think it's a good idea. I bear the scars from thinking it's a good idea.

"A lot of the clubs think it's a good idea - but there is absolutely no timeline and no idea when it might happen."